B2verbformalbusinesslanguage
US/siːs/
UK/siːs/
to stop happening or stop doing something, especially after a long time
In context
The company ceased trading in March after losing its biggest customer.
The noise ceased as suddenly as it had begun.
Guards were told to cease fire as soon as the talks began.
Words that go with cease
verb + preposition
- cease to existThe old factory ceased to exist years ago.
verb + noun
- cease operationsThe airline will cease operations next month.
- cease tradingThe shop ceased trading last winter.
- cease fireBoth sides agreed to cease fire at midnight.
adverb + verb
- never cease to amazeHer energy never ceases to amaze me.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The noise cease suddenly.Correct: The noise ceased suddenly.